Lifejackets now compulsory on small boats
Everyone on a recreational craft 6 metres or shorter must wear a lifejacket while it is moving.
Maritime Transport (Lifejackets on Recreational Craft) Amendment Act 2026 · Starts 9 Oct 2026
What's changing
- People in charge of recreational craft 6 metres or less must ensure everyone wears a correctly sized lifejacket while underway.
- This does not apply to someone actively swimming from the craft.
- SUP surfers may be exempt if attached to the board by a suitable, fit-for-purpose leash.
- “Personal flotation device” is replaced with the more commonly used term “lifejacket”.
- The 2022 stand-up paddleboard exemption notice is revoked and its rules are included instead.
Who's affected
People in charge of recreational craft 6 metres or less, everyone on those craft, and stand-up paddleboard surfers are affected.
When
The Act was passed on 11 September 2026 and takes effect on 9 October 2026.
What you might need to do
- If you are in charge of a recreational craft 6 metres or less, ensure everyone wears an appropriately sized lifejacket while underway.
- Check that lifejackets are serviceable and meet an accepted buoyancy-aid standard.
- If SUP surfing without a lifejacket, remain attached to the board with a suitable, fit-for-purpose leash.
Background
The government says New Zealand has a high drowning rate and that lifejackets were often carried but not worn in boating deaths. It says the changes are intended to reduce avoidable deaths because accidents can happen too suddenly for people to put lifejackets on.